THREATS

MERCURY

Mercury is an example of a particularly harmful air toxic because it builds up in the environment and becomes more toxic with time. A potent neurotoxin that's especially dangerous to small children and pregnant women, mercury exposure affects a child’s ability to walk, talk, read, write, and learn. Read more

SOOT

Children and the elderly are most at risk from dangerous soot pollution, which can cause premature death, and is linked, to heart or lung disease, heart attacks, irregular heartbeats, asthma, chronic bronchitis, decreased lung function, irritation of the airways, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Read more

SMOG

Children are at greater risk from life-threatening exposure to smog because their lungs are still developing and because they are more likely to be active outdoors. Even at very low levels, smog can cause asthma, reduced lung function, airway irritation and damage, increased respiratory infections, permanent lung damage, chest pain, wheezing, coughing, and even premature death. Read more